U.S. patent application number 10/720110 was filed with the patent office on 2004-06-03 for apparatus for generating three-dimensional model data.
This patent application is currently assigned to MORI SEIKI CO., LTD.. Invention is credited to Nakamura, Takayuki.
Application Number | 20040107018 10/720110 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32290507 |
Filed Date | 2004-06-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040107018 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Nakamura, Takayuki |
June 3, 2004 |
Apparatus for generating three-dimensional model data
Abstract
The invention relates to a three-dimensional model data
generating apparatus which can generate efficiently and accurately
three-dimensional model data of a structural member constituting a
machine tool. A three-dimensional model data generating apparatus 1
has: X-, Y-, and Z-axis imaging mechanisms 21, 22, 23 each of which
has two CCD cameras that are spaced apart from each other by a
predetermined distance, and which image a structural member
constituting a machine tool 10 in the respective directions of the
X-, Y-, and Z-axes (three orthogonal axis directions), thereby
generating two-dimensional image data; and a model data generating
section 31 which generates three-dimensional model data including
at least shape data which define a three-dimensional shape of the
structural member on the basis of the generated two-dimensional
image data.
Inventors: |
Nakamura, Takayuki;
(Yamatokoriyama-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WESTERMAN, HATTORI, DANIELS & ADRIAN, LLP
1250 CONNECTICUT AVENUE, NW
SUITE 700
WASHINGTON
DC
20036
US
|
Assignee: |
MORI SEIKI CO., LTD.
Yamatokoriyama-shi
CA
INTELLIGENT MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL
Sacramento
|
Family ID: |
32290507 |
Appl. No.: |
10/720110 |
Filed: |
November 25, 2003 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
700/98 ; 700/118;
700/163 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06T 7/564 20170101;
G06T 2200/08 20130101; G06T 7/596 20170101; G06T 17/10
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
700/098 ;
700/118; 700/163 |
International
Class: |
G06F 019/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Nov 29, 2002 |
JP |
2002-348669 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An apparatus for generating three-dimensional model data of a
structural member constituting a machine tool in which a slide is
movable in directions of at least first and second axes that are
perpendicular to each other, wherein said apparatus comprises:
imaging means for imaging said structural member to generate image
data; and model data generating means for, on the basis of the
image data generated by said imaging means, generating
three-dimensional model data including at least shape data which
define a three-dimensional shape of said structural member.
2. An apparatus for generating three-dimensional model data of a
structural member constituting a machine tool in which a slide is
movable in directions of at least first and second axes that are
perpendicular to each other, wherein said apparatus comprises:
first, second, and third imaging means, each of said imaging means
comprising two imaging sections which are spaced apart from each
other by a predetermined distance, said structural member being
imaged by said imaging sections to generate two-dimensional image
data; and model data generating means for generating
three-dimensional model data including at least shape data which
define a three-dimensional shape of said structural member, on the
basis of sets of two two-dimensional image data which are generated
respectively by said first, second, and third imaging means, said
first imaging means is configured so that said two imaging sections
are arranged along said second axis or a third axis which is
perpendicular to said first and second axes, and said imaging
sections image said structural member in a direction of said first
axis, said second imaging means is configured so that said two
imaging sections are arranged along said first axis or said third
axis, and said imaging sections image said structural member in a
direction of said second axis, and said third imaging means is
configured so that said two imaging sections are arranged along
said first axis or said second axis, and said imaging sections
image said structural member in a direction of said third axis.
3. An apparatus for generating three-dimensional model data
according to claim 2, wherein said apparatus further comprises
model data storing means for previously storing three-dimensional
model data of a whole of said machine tool in which
three-dimensional model data of plural structural members
constituting said machine tool are correlated with one another, and
said model data generating means generates three-dimensional model
data of a structural member which is imaged by said first, second,
and third imaging means, on the basis of two-dimensional image data
that are generated for said imaged structural member, calculates a
coordinate position at which said imaged structural member is to be
positioned on a three-dimensional model of the whole of said
machine tool, and updates the three-dimensional model data of the
whole of said machine tool on the basis of the calculated
coordinate position data, the three-dimensional model data of said
imaged structural member, and the three-dimensional model data of
the whole of said machine tool which are stored in said model data
storing means, thereby generating three-dimensional model data of
the whole of said machine tool including said imaged structural
member.
4. An apparatus for generating three-dimensional model data
according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the
three-dimensional model data of said structural member include
information related to a movement axis and/or a rotation axis which
is set with respect to said structural member.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to a three-dimensional model
data generating apparatus for generating three-dimensional model
data of a structural member constituting a machine tool in which a
slide is movable in directions of at least first and second axes
that are perpendicular to each other.
[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0004] A machine tool is composed of various structural members
such as: a chuck which holds a workpiece; a main spindle which
axially rotates the chuck; a tool rest to which a tool is attached;
and a drive mechanism which moves the tool rest in at least two
orthogonal axial directions. Such a machine tool is configured so
that the workpiece and the tool are relatively moved to machine the
workpiece.
[0005] The operation of the drive mechanism is controlled by a
controller on the basis of an NC program which is adequately
prepared. If the NC program has an error, there is the possibility
that an accident in which the tool and the workpiece interfere with
each other occurs.
[0006] When an NC program is newly prepared, therefore, a trial
machining is conducted on the basis of the NC program to check
whether the NC program has an error or not. Recently, with using
three-dimensional model data of a machine tool, an interference
simulation is performed on a computer to check whether such an NC
program has an error or not.
[0007] Such three-dimensional model data of a machine tool are
configured while three-dimensional model data of plural structural
members constituting the machine tool are correlated with one
another. Three-dimensional model data of each structural member
include at least shape data which define the three-dimensional
shape of the structural member.
[0008] Usually, three-dimensional model data of a machine tool and
structural members are adequately generated with using a
three-dimensional CAD (Computer Aided Design) system by a CAD
operator.
[0009] However, an interference simulation using three-dimensional
model data which are generated in this way has the following
problem. When the shape of a workpiece and that of a chuck for
holding the workpiece are changed, for example, three-dimensional
model data of the workpiece and the chuck must be newly generated,
and three-dimensional model data of the whole of a machine tool
must be corrected and updated with using the generated
three-dimensional model data. As a result, there arises a problem
in that the interference simulation cannot be quickly
performed.
[0010] In a recent machining of workpiece, flexible production is
conducted, and the workpiece shape to be machined is frequently
changed. When three-dimensional model data of a workpiece and a
chuck are newly generated for each change as described above,
therefore, the productivity is very lowered.
[0011] Three-dimensional model data of a machine tool and
structural members are sometimes caused to be different from their
actual shapes by, for example, an error produced by a CAD operator.
In this case, there is a problem in that an interference simulation
cannot be correctly performed.
[0012] The invention has been conducted under the aforementioned
circumstances. It is an object of the invention to provide an
apparatus for generating three-dimensional model data which can
generate efficiently and correctly three-dimensional model data of
a machine tool and a structural member thereof in accordance with
the actual state of the machine tool.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] In order to attain the object, the invention provides an
apparatus for generating three-dimensional model data of a
structural member constituting a machine tool in which a slide is
movable in directions of at least first and second axes that are
perpendicular to each other, wherein
[0014] the apparatus comprises: imaging means for imaging the
structural member to generate image data; and model data generating
means for, on the basis of the image data generated by the imaging
means, generating three-dimensional model data including at least
shape data which define a three-dimensional shape of the structural
member.
[0015] Preferably, the imaging means is configured by first,
second, and third imaging means, each of the imaging means
comprising two imaging sections which are spaced apart from each
other by a predetermined distance, the structural member being
imaged by the imaging sections to generate two-dimensional image
data. In this case, the first imaging means is configured so that
the two imaging sections are arranged along the second axis or a
third axis which is perpendicular to the first and second axes, and
the imaging sections image the structural member in a direction of
the first axis, the second imaging means is configured so that the
two imaging sections are arranged along the first axis or the third
axis, and the imaging sections image the structural member in a
direction of the second axis, and the third imaging means is
configured so that the two imaging sections are arranged along the
first axis or the second axis, and the imaging sections image the
structural member in a direction of the third axis.
[0016] The model data generating means generates three-dimensional
model data of the structural member on the basis of sets of two
two-dimensional image data, the sets being generated respectively
by the first, second, and third imaging means.
[0017] In the apparatus for generating three-dimensional model
data, first, a structural member constituting a machine tool is
imaged by the first, second, and third imaging means in the
directions (three orthogonal axis directions) of the first, second,
and third axes, and two-dimensional image data each configured by
gray-level data which are two-dimensionally arranged are generated.
At this time, since each of the first, second, and third imaging
means has the two imaging sections, two two-dimensional image data
respectively corresponding to the two imaging sections are
generated.
[0018] On the basis of the sets of two two-dimensional image data
which are generated respectively by the first, second, and third
imaging means, the three-dimensional model data including at least
shape data which define the three-dimensional shape of the
structural member are generated by the model data generating
means.
[0019] Specifically, the model data generating means first
binarizes by a predetermined threshold the two-dimensional image
data which are generated respectively by the first, second, and
third imaging means, to extract images corresponding to the
structural member, and extracts shape lines corresponding to
contour lines of the structural member on the basis of the
extracted binarized images. As described above, two imaging
sections are disposed in each of the first, second, and third
imaging means, and the shape lines are extracted for the imaging
sections, respectively.
[0020] Based on the two shape lines which are extracted
respectively for the imaging means, coordinate positions of real
contour lines of the imaged structural member in a
three-dimensional space are calculated for each of the imaging
directions of this imaging means by the triangulation method. The
calculated coordinate positions are relative coordinate positions
with respect to the imaging sections of the imaging means.
[0021] Next, on the basis of the coordinate positions of the real
contour lines which are calculated for each imaging direction, and
the relative positional relationships among the imaging sections of
the imaging means, for example, a three-dimensional shape of the
imaged structural member in which the real contour lines are edges,
respectively is estimated, and three-dimensional model data
including at least shape data which define the three-dimensional
shape are generated.
[0022] The shape data are configured by data such as: vertex
coordinate data indicating coordinates in the three-dimensional
space of vertices constituting the three-dimensional shape of the
imaged structural member; equation data of an edge which is formed
by connecting two vertices with each other; edge data which
correlate the edge with the two vertices; equation data of a plane
surrounded by edges; and plane data which correlate the plane with
the edges.
[0023] In the case where the machine tool is an NC lathe, the
structural member constituting the machine tool is a bed, a spindle
stock which is disposed on the bed, a main spindle which is
rotatably supported on the spindle stock, a chuck which is attached
to the main spindle, a saddle which is movably disposed on the bed,
a tool rest which is disposed on the saddle, or the like. In the
case where the machine tool is a machining center, the structural
member is a bed, a column which is disposed on the bed, a spindle
head which is movably supported on the column, a main spindle which
is rotatably supported on the spindle head, a table which is
movably disposed on the bed, or the like.
[0024] As described above, in the apparatus for generating
three-dimensional model data, a structural member constituting a
machine tool is imaged in three orthogonal directions, and
three-dimensional model data of the structural member are
automatically generated on the basis of two-dimensional image data
which are obtained as a result of the imaging. Therefore, it is
possible to efficiently generate correct three-dimensional model
data.
[0025] When an interference simulation is performed with using the
thus generated correct three-dimensional model data, a precision
simulation can be performed quickly and efficiently.
[0026] The apparatus for generating three-dimensional model data
may be configured in the following manner. The apparatus further
comprises model data storing means for previously storing
three-dimensional model data of a whole of the machine tool in
which three-dimensional model data of plural structural members
constituting the machine tool are correlated with one another, and
the model data generating means generates three-dimensional model
data of a structural member which is imaged by the first, second,
and third imaging means, on the basis of two-dimensional image data
that are generated for the imaged structural member, calculates a
coordinate position at which the imaged structural member is to be
positioned on a three-dimensional model of the whole of the machine
tool, and updates the three-dimensional model data of the whole of
the machine tool on the basis of the calculated coordinate position
data, the three-dimensional model data of the imaged structural
member, and the three-dimensional model data of the whole of the
machine tool which are stored in the model data storing means,
thereby generating three-dimensional model data of the whole of the
machine tool including the imaged structural member.
[0027] According to the apparatus for generating three-dimensional
model data, three-dimensional model data of the whole machine tool
in which three-dimensional model data of plural structural members
constituting the machine tool are correlated with one another are
previously stored into the model data storing means. In the case
where the machine tool is an NC lathe, for example,
three-dimensional model data of a bed and those of a tool rest and
a spindle stock, three-dimensional model data of the spindle stock
and those of a main spindle, three-dimensional model data of the
main spindle and those of a chuck, three-dimensional model data of
the chuck and those of a workpiece, and the like are correlated
with one another to constitute the three-dimensional model data of
the whole machine tool. The three-dimensional model data of the
whole machine tool are stored into the model data storing
means.
[0028] On the basis of two-dimensional image data of a structural
member which is imaged by the first, second, and third imaging
means, three-dimensional model data of the imaged structural member
are then generated in the manner described above. A coordinate
position at which a three-dimensional model of the imaged
structural member is to be positioned in a three-dimensional model
of the whole machine tool is then calculated based on relative
positional relationships among the imaging sections of the imaging
means and the machine tool.
[0029] On the basis of the calculated coordinate position data, the
three-dimensional model data of the imaged structural member, and
the three-dimensional model data of the whole machine tool stored
in the model data storing means, the three-dimensional model data
of the whole machine tool stored in the model data storing means
are then updated to generate three-dimensional model data of the
whole of the machine tool in which the three-dimensional model data
of the imaged structural member are placed. Specifically, in the
case where the three-dimensional model data of the imaged
structural member do not exist in the three-dimensional model data
of the whole machine tool stored in the model data storing means,
three-dimensional model data of the whole machine tool to which the
three-dimensional model data of the imaged structural member are
added are generated. In the case where three-dimensional model of
another structural member exist at a place where the
three-dimensional model of the imaged structural member are to
exist, the three-dimensional model data of the other structural
member are deleted, and three-dimensional model data of the whole
machine tool to which the three-dimensional model data of the
imaged structural member are added are then generated.
[0030] As a result, according to the apparatus for generating
three-dimensional model data, correct three-dimensional model data
of an imaged structural member can be efficiently generated, and
three-dimensional model data of the whole machine tool including
the imaged structural member can be updated and generated correctly
(i.e., so as to coincide with the actual state of the machine tool)
and efficiently.
[0031] Preferably, the three-dimensional model data of the
structural member include information related to a movement axis
and/or a rotation axis which is set with respect to the structural
member. In the case where the imaged structural member is a tool
rest, for example, three-dimensional model data of the tool rest
are configured so as to include information that the tool rest is
moved along the axis of the main spindle. In the case where the
imaged structural member is a chuck, three-dimensional model data
of the chuck are configured so as to include information that the
chuck is axially rotated. According to the configuration, the
manner in which the imaged structural member is to be moved or
rotated in the machine tool can be defined, and hence the
three-dimensional model data are more suitable for an interference
simulation.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0032] FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing the
configuration of an apparatus for generating three-dimensional
model data of an embodiment of the invention;
[0033] FIG. 2 is a sectional side elevation view looking in the
direction of the arrow A-A in Fig.
[0034] FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a series of processes in a
model data generating section in the embodiment;
[0035] FIGS. 4 to 9 are diagrams illustrating generation of
three-dimensional model data; and
[0036] FIGS. 10 and 11 are diagrams illustrating the configuration
of three-dimensional model data.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0037] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the invention will be
described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a
block diagram schematically showing the configuration of an
apparatus for generating three-dimensional model data of an
embodiment of the invention, and FIG. 2 is a side section view
looking in the direction of the arrow A-A in FIG. 1.
[0038] As shown in FIG. 1, the three-dimensional model data
generating apparatus 1 of the embodiment comprises: an imaging
device 20 which is mounted on a machine tool 10, and which images a
structural member constituting the machine tool 10 to generate
two-dimensional image data; an image data storing section 30 which
stores the two-dimensional image data of the structural member that
are generated by the imaging device 20; a model data generating
section 31 which generates three-dimensional model data of the
imaged structural member on the basis of the two-dimensional image
data stored in the image data storing section 30; a model data
storing section 32 which stores three-dimensional model data of the
whole of the machine tool 10; and an input/output device 40 which
is connected to the model data generating section 31 and the model
data storing section 32.
[0039] In the embodiment, the machine tool 10 is an NC lathe, and
configured by various structural members such as: a bed 11; a
spindle stock (not shown) which is disposed on the bed 11; a main
spindle 12 which is supported on the spindle stock (not shown) so
as to be rotatable (in the C-axis direction) about the Z-axis (the
axis which is parallel to the axis of the main spindle 12); a chuck
13 which is attached to the main spindle 12; and a tool rest 14
which is disposed on the bed 11 so as to be movable in the
directions of the three orthogonal axes (the X-, Y-, and Z-axes).
The chuck 13 is composed of a body unit 13a, and a plurality of
gripping jaws 13b attached to the body unit 13a.
[0040] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the imaging device 20 is
configured by: an X-axis imaging mechanism 21 comprising two CCD
cameras 21a, 21b which are spaced apart from each other by a
predetermined distance; a Y-axis imaging mechanism 22 comprising
two CCD cameras 22a, 22b which are similarly spaced apart from each
other by a predetermined distance; and a Z-axis imaging mechanism
23 comprising two CCD cameras 23a, 23b which are similarly spaced
apart from each other by a predetermined distance. In the
embodiment, the chuck 13 which grips a workpiece W shown in FIG. 7
is an object to be imaged.
[0041] The X-axis imaging mechanism 21 is configured so that the
CCD cameras 21a, 21b are arranged along the Z-axis to image the
chuck 13 and the workpiece W in the direction along the X-axis, the
Y-axis imaging mechanism 22 is configured so that the CCD cameras
22a, 22b are arranged along the X-axis to image the chuck 13 and
the workpiece W in the direction along the Y-axis, and the Z-axis
imaging mechanism 23 is configured so that the CCD cameras 23a, 23b
are arranged along the Y-axis to image the chuck 13 and the
workpiece W in the direction along the Z-axis.
[0042] When an imaging process is not to be performed, the X-axis
imaging mechanism 21, the Y-axis imaging mechanism 22, and the
Z-axis imaging mechanism 23 are stored at their respective
retracting positions, and, when the imaging process is to be
performed, moved by driving devices 24, 25, 26 from the retracting
positions to imaging positions, respectively.
[0043] Each of the CCD cameras 21a, 21b, 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b
comprises a plurality of photoelectric conversion elements which
are two-dimensionally arranged in a multi-row, multi-column array,
digitizes voltage signals which are output from the photoelectric
conversion elements in accordance with the amount of received
light, converts the digitized signals into gray level values, and
outputs the values as two-dimensional gray-level image data which
are arranged in the same manner as the arrangement of the
photoelectric conversion elements.
[0044] The image data storing section 30 stores the two-dimensional
gray-level image data which are output from the CCD cameras 21a,
21b, 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b.
[0045] Three-dimensional model data of the whole of the machine
tool 10 which are adequately generated with using a
three-dimensional CAD system or the like are previously stored via
the input/output device 40 into the model data storing section 32.
The three-dimensional model data of the whole of the machine tool
10 are configured so that three-dimensional model data of
structural members constituting the machine tool 10 are correlated
with one another. In the embodiment, for example, three-dimensional
model data of the bed 11 and those of the tool rest 14 and the
spindle stock (not shown), the three-dimensional model data of the
spindle stock (not shown) and those of the main spindle 12, the
three-dimensional model data of the main spindle 12 and those of
the chuck 13, the three-dimensional model data of the chuck 13 and
those of the workpiece W, and the like are correlated with one
another to be generated as the three-dimensional model data of the
whole machine tool 10. The generated three-dimensional model data
are stored into the model data storing section 32.
[0046] Each three-dimensional model data are configured so as to
include at least shape data which define the three-dimensional
shape of the structural member, and axis data related to a movement
axis and/or a rotation axis which is set with respect to the
structural member. The shape data are configured by: vertex
coordinate data indicating coordinates in the three-dimensional
space of vertices constituting the three-dimensional shape of the
structural member; equation data of an edge which is formed by
connecting two vertices with each other; edge data which correlate
the edge with the two vertices; equation data of a plane surrounded
by edges; plane data which correlate the plane with the edges; and
other data. In the case where the three-dimensional shape is a
shape shown in FIG. 10, for example, shape data shown in FIG. 11
are obtained. In the case of the tool rest 14, for example, the
axis data relate to the X-, Y-, and Z-axes, and, in the case of the
chuck 13, the axis data relate to the C-axis.
[0047] The model data generating section 31 generates
three-dimensional model data which include at least shape data
defining the three-dimensional shape of the chuck 13 and the
workpiece W, on the basis of the two-dimensional gray-level image
data stored in the image data storing section 30, calculates a
coordinate position at which the chuck 13 and the workpiece W are
to be positioned on a three-dimensional model of the whole of the
machine tool 10, and updates the three-dimensional model data of
the whole of the machine tool 10 on the basis of the calculated
coordinate position data, the three-dimensional model data of the
chuck 13 and the workpiece W, and the three-dimensional model data
of the whole of the machine tool 10 which are stored in the model
data storing section 32, thereby generating three-dimensional model
data of the whole of the machine tool 10 including the chuck 13 and
the workpiece W which are imaged.
[0048] Specifically, the model data generating section 31 performs
processes shown in FIG. 3. It is assumed that the imaging device 20
images the chuck 13 gripping the workpiece W, and two-dimensional
gray-level image data obtained by the imaging are stored in the
image data storing section 30. Hereinafter, the workpiece W and the
chuck 13 are referred to as the imaged structural member.
[0049] The model data generating section 31 first reads out the
three-dimensional model data of the whole machine tool 10 stored in
the model data storing section 32, from the model data storing
section 32 (step S1), and reads out the two-dimensional gray-level
image data of the imaged structural member stored in the image data
storing section 30, from the image data storing section 30 (step
S2).
[0050] The read out two-dimensional image data are binarized by a
predetermined threshold to extract images of the imaged structural
member, and the extracted binarized images are scanned in the
raster direction to extract contour lines of the binarized images
(step S3).
[0051] The contour lines of the binarized images which are obtained
by the CCD cameras 21a, 21b are shown in (a) and (b) of FIG. 4,
those of the binarized images which are obtained by the CCD cameras
22a, 22b are shown in (a) and (b) of FIG. 5, and those of the
binarized images which are obtained by the CCD cameras 23a, 23b are
shown in (a) and (b) of FIG. 6.
[0052] Based on the two contour lines which are extracted for each
of imaging mechanisms of the X-axis imaging mechanism 21, the
Y-axis imaging mechanism 22, and the Z-axis imaging mechanism 23,
coordinate positions of real contour lines of the imaged structural
member in a three-dimensional space are calculated for each of the
imaging directions of the imaging mechanisms by the triangulation
method (step S4). The calculated coordinate positions are relative
coordinate positions with respect to the imaging mechanisms.
[0053] A technique of calculating the coordinate positions of the
real contour lines of the imaged structural member in a
three-dimensional space by the triangulation method will be briefly
described.
[0054] For example, the two CCD cameras 21a, 21b which obtain the
images shown in (a) and (b) of FIG. 4, and the entity of the imaged
structural member are in the positional relationships in the X-Z
plane shown in (c) of FIG. 4. In (c) of FIG. 4, Fa denotes the
center planes of lenses of the CCD cameras 21a, 21b, and Ga denotes
the image surfaces. In the figure, a denotes the lens center of the
CCD camera 21a, and b denotes the lens center of the CCD camera
21b. Furthermore, Ra denotes the distance between the lens center
plane Fa and the image surface Ga, and La denotes the distance
between the lens centers a, b of the two CCD cameras 21a, 21b.
These distances are previously accurately measured. In the figure,
c1 and d1 denote axes which are parallel to the X-axis, and which
pass the centers a, b, respectively.
[0055] A reference point in the entity of the imaged structural
member is indicated by Pa, and lines respectively connecting points
where the axes c1 and d1 intersect the image surface Ga, and the
reference point Pa are set. The lines intersect the lens center
plane Fa at points Pa1 and Pa2, respectively. Namely, light from
the reference point Pa is received by the CCD cameras 21a, 21b
intersects the respective lens center planes at the points Pa1 and
Pa2 to be deflected by the respective lenses, and then further
advances from the points Pa1 and Pa2 in parallel with the axes c1
and d1 to be imaged on the respective image surfaces. The points
Pa1 and Pa2 correspond to portions which are in the contour line
images of (a) and (b) of FIG. 4, and which are denoted by the same
reference numerals, respectively.
[0056] When the distances Z1, Z2 between the imaged points of the
reference point Pa on the image surfaces of the CCD cameras 21a,
21b, and the lens centers a, b are known, therefore, the distance
Xa in the X-axis direction between the CCD cameras 21a, 21b and the
entity of the imaged structural member can be calculated by the
triangulation method with using Expression (1) below. The distances
Z1, Z2 can be easily calculated from the contour line images of (a)
and (b) of FIG. 4 which are imaged by the CCD cameras 21a, 21b and
then processed. In the figure, c2 and d2 denote axes which are
parallel to the Y-axis, and which pass the lens centers a, b,
respectively.
Xa=Ra(La-Z1-Z2)/(Z1+Z2) (1)
[0057] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, also the distances between the
CCD cameras 22a, 22b and the CCD cameras 23a, 23b, and the entity
of the imaged structural member can be calculated in a similar
manner as described above.
[0058] In FIG. 5, (c) is a diagram showing the positional
relationships in the X-Y plane among the CCD cameras 22a, 22b and
the entity of the imaged structural member. In the figure, Fb
denotes the center planes of lenses of the CCD cameras 22a, 22b, Gb
denotes the image surfaces, e denotes the lens center of the CCD
camera 22a, and f denotes the lens center of the CCD camera 22b.
Furthermore, Rb denotes the distance between the lens center plane
Fb and the image surface Gb, Lb denotes the distance between the
lens centers e, f of the CCD cameras 22a, 22b, and g1 and h1 denote
axes which are parallel to the Y-axis, and which pass the centers
e, f, respectively. In the figure, Pb denotes a reference point,
Pb1 and Pb2 denote points where lines respectively connecting
intersections of the axes g1, h1 in the image surfaces Gb and the
reference point Pb intersect the lens center plane Fb, and X1, X2
denote distances between the imaged points of the reference point
Pb on the image surfaces Gb of the CCD cameras 22a, 22b, and the
lens centers e, f. In (a) and (b) of FIG. 5, g2 and h2 denote axes
which are parallel to the Z-axis, and which pass the centers e, f,
respectively.
[0059] Furthermore, (c) of FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the
positional relationships in the Y-Z plane among the CCD cameras
23a, 23b and the entity of the imaged structural member. In the
figure, Fc denotes the center planes of lenses of the CCD cameras
23a, 23b, Gc denotes the image surfaces, j denotes the lens center
of the CCD camera 23a, and k denotes the lens center of the CCD
camera 23b. The reference symbol Rc denotes the distance between
the lens center plane Fc and the image surface Gc, Lc denotes the
distance between the lens centers j, k of the CCD cameras 23a, 23b,
and m1 and n1 denote axes which are parallel to the Z-axis, and
which pass the centers j, k, respectively. In the figure, Pc
denotes a reference point, Pc1 and Pc2 denote points where lines
respectively connecting intersections of the axes m1, n1 in the
image surfaces Gc and the reference point Pc intersect the lens
center plane Fc, and Y1, Y2 denote distances between the imaged
points of the reference point Pc on the image surfaces Gc of the
CCD cameras 23a, 23b, and the lens centers j, k. In (a) and (b) of
FIG. 6, m2 and n2 denote axes which are parallel to the X-axis, and
which pass the centers j, k, respectively.
[0060] The distance Yb between the CCD cameras 22a, 22b and the
entity of the imaged structural member, and the distance Zc between
the CCD cameras 23a, 23b and the entity of the imaged structural
member can be calculated with using Expressions (2), (3) below.
Yb=Rb(Lb-Z1-Z2)/(Z1+Z2) (2)
Zc=Rc(Lc-Z1-Z2)/(Z1+Z2) (3)
[0061] In this way, the coordinate positions of the real contour
lines of the imaged structural member in a three-dimensional space
are calculated.
[0062] Next, on the basis of the coordinate positions of the real
contour lines which are calculated for each imaging direction, and
the relative positional relationships among the CCD cameras 21a,
21b, 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b, a three-dimensional shape of the imaged
structural member in which the real contour lines are edges,
respectively is estimated, and three-dimensional model data
including at least shape data which define the three-dimensional
shape are generated (step S5).
[0063] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram in which the real contour
lines of the imaging directions are placed on the basis of the
relative positional relationships among the CCD cameras 21a, 21b,
22a, 22b, 23a, 23b, and FIG. 7 shows the estimated
three-dimensional shape of the imaged structural member.
[0064] Next, on the basis of the relative positional relationships
among the CCD cameras 21a, 21b, 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b and the machine
tool 10, a coordinate position at which a three-dimensional model
of the imaged structural member is to be positioned on a
three-dimensional model of the machine tool 10 is calculated (step
S6).
[0065] Then, the three-dimensional model data of the machine tool
10 are updated on the basis of the calculated coordinate position
data on the three-dimensional model of the machine tool 10, the
three-dimensional model data of the imaged structural member, and
the three-dimensional model data of the machine tool 10 which are
read out in step S1 (steps S7 to S12).
[0066] Specifically, it is checked whether, on the
three-dimensional model of the machine tool 10 which is read out in
step S1, a three-dimensional model of another structural member
exists at a place where the three-dimensional model of the imaged
structural member is to exist or not (step S7). If a
three-dimensional model of another structural member exists, the
three-dimensional model data of the other structural member are
deleted (step S8) and three-dimensional model data of the machine
tool 10 to which the three-dimensional model data of the imaged
structural member are added are generated (step S10). Thereafter,
the axis data are added to the three-dimensional model data of the
imaged structural member (step S11), and these data are stored into
the model data storing section 32 (step S12).
[0067] The unique axial data of the imaged structural member are
input by an interactive input through the input/output device 40.
When the imaged structural member is connected with another
structural member, the connection relationships are automatically
recognized, and the axis data related to the other structural
member to be connected are automatically set as the axis data of
the imaged structural member. As shown in FIG. 9, when the axis
data of the main-spindle motor which axially rotates the main
spindle are expressed as the spindle axis and those of a C-axis
servomotor which rotationally feeds the main spindle about the axis
by an arbitrary rotational speed are expressed as the C-axis, for
example, the axis data of the main spindle which is to be connected
with the main-spindle motor and the C-axis servomotor are
automatically set as the spindle axis and the C-axis which are the
axis data of the motors. Moreover, the axis data of the imaged
structural member consisting of the chuck to be connected with the
main spindle and the workpiece are automatically set as the spindle
axis and the C-axis which are the axis data of the main
spindle.
[0068] By contrast, if a three-dimensional model of another
structural member does not exist, it is then judged whether the
three-dimensional model data of the imaged structural member which
are to be placed on the three-dimensional model of the machine tool
10 exist in the three-dimensional model data of the machine tool 10
that are read out in step S1 or not (step S9). If the
three-dimensional model of the imaged structural member does not
exist, the three-dimensional model data of the whole machine tool
to which the three-dimensional model data of the imaged structural
member are added are generated (steps S10, S11), and the generated
three-dimensional model data are stored into the model data storing
section 32 (step S12).
[0069] After the updating process of steps S7 to S12 are ended, the
series of processes are completed.
[0070] In the thus configured three-dimensional model data
generating apparatus 1 of the embodiment, when the object of to be
machined is changed and the workpiece W, the chuck 13, and the like
are exchanged in accordance with this change, for example, the new
structural member is imaged in the directions of the X-, Y-, and
Z-axes (three orthogonal axis directions) by the X-axis imaging
mechanism 21, the Y-axis imaging mechanism 22, and the Z-axis
imaging mechanism 23 of the imaging device 20, and two-dimensional
image data of the axis directions are generated. The generated
two-dimensional image data are stored into the image data storing
section 30.
[0071] In the model data generating section 31, the two-dimensional
image data stored in the image data storing section 30 are read
out, the three-dimensional model data of the imaged structural
member are generated on the basis of the read out two-dimensional
image data, and, based on the generated three-dimensional model
data of the imaged structural member, the three-dimensional model
data of the machine tool 10 stored in the model data storing
section 32 are updated.
[0072] As described above, in the three-dimensional model data
generating apparatus 1, three-dimensional model data are
automatically generated from images taken by the imaging device 20.
Even when a structural member constituting the machine tool 10 is
changed, therefore, three-dimensional model data of the whole of
the machine tool 10 after the change can be generated correctly and
efficiently.
[0073] When an interference simulation is performed with using the
thus generated correct three-dimensional model data, a precision
simulation can be performed quickly and efficiently.
[0074] In the above, an embodiment of the invention has been
described above. It is a matter of course that specific modes in
which the invention can be realized are not restricted to this.
[0075] Although the example in which the machine tool 10 is an NC
lathe and the imaged structural member is the chuck 13 holding the
workpiece W has been described, the invention is not restricted to
such a configuration. The machine tool 10 includes various machine
tools such as a machining center, and the imaged structural member
includes various structural members constituting the machine tool
10, such as the tool rest 14 to which a tool T is attached, the
main spindle holding a tool, and a table on which the workpiece W
is placed.
[0076] In the embodiment, the CCD cameras 21a, 21b are arranged
along the Z-axis, the CCD cameras 22a, 22b are arranged along the
X-axis, and the CCD cameras 23a, 23b are arranged along the Y-axis.
Alternatively, the CCD cameras 21a, 21b may be arranged along the
Y-axis, the CCD cameras 22a, 22b maybe arranged along the Z-axis,
and the CCD cameras 23a, 23b may be arranged along the X-axis.
[0077] In the embodiment, two CCD cameras are disposed along each
of the X-, Y-, and Z-axes, or a total of six CCD cameras are
disposed. The invention is not restricted to this configuration.
Alternatively, two CCD cameras may be disposed along one of the X-,
Y-, and Z-axes, and the cameras are sequentially moved so as to be
disposed along the other two axes, so that the structural member is
imaged in the directions of the three axes of the X-, Y-, and
Z-axes by the two CCD cameras. More alternatively, a single CCD
camera may be posed so as to be movable along the X-, Y-, and
Z-axes, the structural member may be imaged from two places along
each of the axes, and three-dimensional model data of the imaged
structural member may be generated on the basis of the sets of two
two-dimensional image data which are obtained for each of the
axes.
* * * * *